From Polymer to Ceramics: Low Cost Manufacturing of Ceramic Matrix Composite Materials

摘要

A cost efficient manufacturing route for ceramic matrix composites (CMC) has been developed by DLR. Starting with a carbon fibre reinforced plastic composite and converting the matrix from carbon to silicon carbide via the reaction with liquid silicon, CMC materials of high mass specific properties and of excellent thermal shock resistance can be achieved. Taking advantage of the simplicity of the process and the low raw material costs, C/C-SiC composites offer a wide range of possible applications. Very complex C/C-SiC Structures have already been realized and demonstrate the transferability of the material's characteristics from samples to real components. Within industrial cooperation, C/C-SiC materials are being developed as aerospace hot Structures and as friction materials for weight saving brake construction. Further prospective products like jet vanes or heat exchangers show new applications where C/C-SiC composites are attractive alternatives to conventional materials.